Florida Trade Rumours

I have been hearing a number of trade rumours surrounding the Florida Panthers in the last couple of weeks and the fact is that the team needs to shake things up a little.

The first rumour that I have heard is forward Peter Worrell, defenceman Bret Hedican and a third round draft pick to the Buffalo Sabres for center Chris Gratton, winger Eric Boulton, goalie Bob Essensa and Buffalo’s first round draft pick acquired from the Detroit Red Wings in the Hasek deal. This trade does not make any sense to me as it does not meet Florida’s need for an quality offensive defenseman and in fact gives up some experience which is lacking on the Florida blue line. If in fact Chris Gratton lives up to the expectations put on him in south Florida then the trade would make some sense as it would the team some badly needed offense, but this is highly unlikely. I also heard that the Panthers are willing to deal goalie Trevor Kidd and centre Kevyn Adams to Buffalo for Gratton, which would make a little more sense. First, Trevor Kidd and his $2 million backup goaltender’s salary is shipped to Buffalo and the Panthers are free to call up Wade Flaherty from the minors. Second, Gratton would be able to come to south Florida without the Panthers having to give up one of their best defencemen.

Then we come to Bill Guerin. I have heard several rumours that have Guerin coming to Miami if not before the trade deadline, then through unrestricted free agency in July. It is known that Mike Keenan wants Guerin on his roster in order to add veteran leadership to his squad but getting him there might be a problem.

Well, these are just some thoughts on the matter, glad to here any comments.